Dog training resources

I am getting my first dog (Yellow Labrador retriever) and I wanted to train the dog myself. I was wondering for those of you that train your own dogs. Is there any training DVDs or books you would recommend? Do you use just one method or do you blend multiple together for a more personalized program? Also any advice you can give would be great.

I bought the Sound Beginnings DVD and i was thinking about getting the Mike Lardy Total Retriever Training and Total Retriever Marking DVDs. I was wondering if these DVDs are more for training your dog for hunting dog competitions or hunting a field? ( I know a lot of the stuff translates over but wanted to get your guys idea if I need both or just one or if there is another DVD set out there?)

I'm hoping Tim or Kg will chime in on this or someone with more knowledge of TRT (it's still on my Christmas list.....).

"Total Retriever Training" is what would be used to start your formal training and take you through to a finished level. It would take you through his flow chart. "Total Retriever Marking" is additional knowledge and drills to enhance marking (when the dog sees the thrown/shot bumper or bird). This is as I understand what the videos entail. I don't own them yet. He also has his Force Fetch (FF) video among other publications.

I've followed Fowl Dogs by Rick Stawski, which is Carr based, and had a lot of help from Kg. I believe my dog is doing pretty good. Also check with Kg to see if he has any Gun Intro videos left. He put together a great little video on it.

Thanks a lot for all of the info guys. I am a little nervous about training my first dog, but this forum helps a lot with a bunch of good info. I am going to buy the Mike Lardy TRT and TRM DVD set combo and give it a try.

I noticed we haven't mentioned it yet in this thread, but get with your local retriever club, a local pro, or an experienced amateur. They can be invaluable resource. You'll find folks to train with and a lot of knowledge. Be willing to help out and the info available is limitless. From the sounds of your posts, it doesn't sound like you want to test/trial and that is fine. I don't either but these avenues will open other doors for you that you're not even thinking about right now.

Glad to see you have the "Sound Beginnings", watch it several times and take notes on sequence (watch for ages of dogs) of drills. It's not a race and most important - HAVE FUN!!